New temporary chief takes over at West Midlands Combined Authority
The new temporary boss of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) said the region stands on the “cusp of extraordinary opportunity”.
Ed Cox has assumed the role of temporary chief executive of the organisation following the departure of Laura Shoaf, who had been in the role for the past four years.
Mr Cox has been with WMCA for five years and has been serving as the Deputy Chief Executive, leading on strategy, economy and net zero.
Laura, who had been with the authority since its inception, attended her final WMCA Board meeting held at Wolverhampton Council on Friday (June 13).
She formally left the role this week and will continue as the chair of Shadow Great British Railways.
Mr Cox said: “It’s a real honour to be invited by the mayor and local authority leaders to serve as Chief Executive (Interim) at such a pivotal time.
“We in the West Midlands stand on the cusp of extraordinary opportunity.”
A spokesperson for the WMCA said: “We’re pleased to welcome Ed Cox as our new Chief Executive (Interim).
“A proud native West Midlander, Ed has been with WMCA for five years, leading our work on strategy, economy and net zero.
“His focus will be on clarity, delivery and collaboration as we continue driving positive change across the region.”
When she announced her departure last month, Laura Shoaf said: “I have lived and worked in the West Midlands for over 20 years, and I am proud that I have been able to make a real difference for our residents.
“I will always champion our wonderful region and while I am sad to be leaving the Combined Authority, I know I am leaving it with people who care passionately about the West Midlands and will continue to see it go from strength to strength.”
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker said she had done “an exemplary job for this region”.
